The 3D CAD model is used to guide the sintering operation in an EOSINT M 270 System (Courtesy: Harbec).

The screenshot from the system’s PSW software illustrates how parts are laid out on the build platform to maximize the manufacturing run (Courtesy: Harbec).

A 200-watt laser melts the powdered maraging steel (bottom left and middle), joining one layer to the next (Courtesy: Harbec).

A 200-watt laser melts the powdered maraging steel (bottom left and middle), joining one layer to the next (Courtesy: Harbec).

The finished components are covered in excess steel powder which is then removed using compressed air and recycled before final machining and heat-treating steps are performed. (Courtesy: Harbec).

Sporting performance not only depends on athletes’ mental and physical constitution. Equipment is a decisive factor in many disciplines too. High-tech materials and specialized equipment tailor-made to athletes’ requirements lead to success.

To remain competitive, the development departments of the sports equipment industry deviate from series products. They come closer to their objective of optimizing the system "athlete and equipment" with new ideas for product improvements.

These ideas are turned into product innovations through the use of production technologies such as additive manufacturing. This results in the production of robust lightweight versions of complex sports equipment, for example, which would not be able to be produced using conventional production technology.

For athletes, this mainly means one thing: a competitive lead in the fight for medals and podium places.